No community start suggestion yet.
Why is striking a Jew's jaw specifically compared to striking HaKadosh Baruch Hu? The gemara (גמרא) reveals that speech is the expression of our unique status as God's children, not merely His creations. Verbal abuse therefore represents the most devastating assault on a person's tzelem Elokim.
This shiur examines a Chazal stating that whoever strikes a Jew on the jaw is like striking HaKadosh Baruch Hu on the jaw. Rabbi Zweig begins by questioning why the gemara (גמרא) specifies the jaw rather than any physical assault, and why this principle applies specifically to Jews when all humans possess tzelem Elokim. Drawing from Avos 3:4, he establishes a fundamental distinction: while all people are precious as God's creations (tzelem Elokim), Jews are uniquely precious as God's children (banim). This difference explains why striking a Jew is considered a personal affront to God - attacking someone's child is fundamentally different from damaging their handiwork. The focus on the jaw reveals a deeper insight about the nature of tzelem Elokim. The jaw represents the organ of speech, which is the primary expression of the divine image in man. Rabbi Zweig cites the Gra's teaching that the essence of Torah (תורה) learning requires articulation (dibur), making speech central to spiritual development. The connection between wisdom and the beard (zaken meaning both 'elder' and 'wise one') further emphasizes how the facial area represents the seat of human chochma.
Looking for the full summary?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
Dedicate a Shiur in Mussar
L'ilui nishmas a loved one. In honor of a simcha or yahrzeit. As a zechus for a refuah sheleimah. Your dedication helps carry Rabbi Zweig's Torah to learners around the world.
Why does the Talmud connect freedom to the fact that the Ten Commandments were "engraved" on the tablets? The shiur develops that speech is what gives humans their tzuras adam (human form) - slaves only listen while masters speak. True freedom means having definition through expressing who you really are, not just going through motions.
How can the Mishna praise machlokes l'shem shamayim as "sof o l'hiskayem"? Rabbi Zweig redefines shalom as appreciating differences rather than creating uniformity. The Dor HaFlaga received a gift, not punishment - separate languages and lands that enable diverse contributions to strengthen community unity.
Chazal on striking a Jew
Looking for the full transcript?
Full access is available to members of the TUF Alumni Association or the Yam Hagadol Foundation.
Already a member? Let the admin know!
